Iranian Negotiators Lived in Constant Fear During US Talks, Says Foreign Minister

Tensions During Negotiations

Abbas Araghchi, the Iranian Foreign Minister, has disclosed the persistent anxiety that Tehran's negotiators experienced during discussions with the United States, expressing that they felt their lives were at risk. In a conversation with Steve Witkoff, a Middle East envoy for former President Donald Trump, Araghchi recounted the immense pressure Iranian officials faced due to military threats from the US and Israel. He posed a poignant question to Witkoff, asking if he had ever been in a situation where he feared a meeting could be bombed at any moment. He elaborated on the emotional toll, stating, 'Have you ever, while checking in on your family over the phone, thought this might be the last time?' This statement was made during an interview with Iran's Mehr News Agency.

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Araghchi emphasized that the atmosphere surrounding the negotiations was fraught with the threat of military action, which overshadowed every discussion. He remarked that despite the ongoing threats, Tehran remained resolute. 'In response to the unreasonable demand for zero enrichment, we stood firm. When they realized they couldn't achieve their goals through talks, they resorted to warfare,' he stated in an interview also broadcasted by RT News. He added, 'You must engage in dialogue. Threats and bribes will not work on us.' The Iranian minister noted that the US initiated contact for nuclear discussions last year and has maintained sporadic communication since then. He asserted that Iran's determination at the negotiating table compelled the US and Israel to pursue a more challenging approach, claiming, 'They were defeated in the 12-day war,' and insisted that Iran is not intimidated by US threats.

US Military Actions Against Iran Continue

On Monday, the United States extended its military operations against Iran for the ninth consecutive night, targeting military facilities throughout the nation. This escalation occurred even as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested that Tehran might still be open to negotiations to resolve the escalating conflict. Despite the ongoing military actions, Rubio indicated that there remains a possibility for diplomatic engagement. He noted that Iran seems interested in negotiations, even amid the hostilities, implying that Washington still perceives opportunities for dialogue alongside military pressure.